Operation Ghazab lil-Haq Unleashed
Pakistan has launched a major military operation, capturing multiple Afghan Taliban posts and destroying over 80 tanks in a significant escalation of border hostilities. The operation, dubbed “Ghazab lil-Haq” (Righteous Fury), comes in response to what Pakistani officials term “unprovoked aggression” from the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.
Key Military Developments
According to Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Pakistani forces have destroyed at least 27 Taliban military posts. The Pakistan Air Force conducted targeted airstrikes on installations in Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia provinces. Two brigade headquarters in Kabul and a corps headquarters in Kandahar were reportedly destroyed. Tarar confirmed that 133 Taliban operatives have been killed, with 200 injured, while two Pakistani security personnel have been martyred.
In a separate development, security forces successfully neutralized multiple small drones launched by militant groups in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Abbottabad, Swabi, and Nowshera. The information minister stated these incidents “exposed direct linkages between the Afghan Taliban Regime and Terrorism in Pakistan.”
Political and Diplomatic Reactions
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has declared an “open war” against Afghanistan, accusing the Taliban of making their country a “colony of India.” Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari warned that while Pakistan does not seek conflict, it “knows how to give a befitting reply.”
Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, speaking in the Senate, claimed the military response represented “not even 10% of the armed forces’ strength,” emphasizing national unity behind the armed forces.
International Calls for De-escalation
The escalating conflict has drawn urgent calls for peace from global powers:
- China: Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning expressed being “deeply concerned” and called for an immediate ceasefire, stating China is engaging with both sides through diplomatic channels.
- Russia: Urged both nations to halt attacks “immediately” and resolve differences diplomatically, offering to consider mediation if requested by both parties.
- Iran: Has offered to mediate between the neighboring countries.
Regional Diplomacy in Motion
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held crucial phone conversations with his Saudi and Turkish counterparts. In discussions with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Dar briefed him on Operation Ghazab lil-Haq. Both leaders emphasized the importance of regional peace and stability and agreed to maintain close coordination.
The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) is scheduled to hold a press conference, indicating further official communication regarding the military situation.
Background to the Clashes
The current escalation began when Afghan Taliban forces allegedly resorted to unprovoked firing along multiple sectors of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, including Chitral, Khyber, Mohmand, Kurram, and Bajaur. Pakistan’s retaliatory operation marks one of the most serious military confrontations between the two nations in recent years, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
